Australia: Work Starts on Carnarvon Flood Mitigation

Work Starts on Carnarvon Flood Mitigation

Flood mitigation works in the Carnarvon horticultural district will reduce the impact of flooding on local growers and support the region’s expansion as a major food bowl.

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls and Water Minister Bill Marmion said today’s ground-breaking ceremony for the Carnarvon Stage 2 flood mitigation works marked a major milestone for flood protection in the region.

We saw the devastating effect of flooding in this important food growing area only two years ago,” Mr Grylls said.

“The construction of this new levee system will significantly reduce flood damage to crops and provide increased food security to West Australians and export markets by improving the level of flood protection for the Carnarvon horticultural industry.”

Mr Grylls said the $60 million project was funded through $45 million from the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program in addition to $15 million through the Federal Government’s Regional Development Australia Fund.

“The initiative strongly aligns to the State Government’s Gascoyne Flood Recovery Plan and is part of the Government’s commitment to respond to the needs of the Gascoyne communities following the 2010-11 floods,” he said.

“When completed, the works will assist in establishing a more sustainable social and economic base for Carnarvon and the region, as well as contributing to the State’s economy.”

Speaking at the ceremony in Carnarvon, Water Minister Bill Marmion thanked the Department of Regional Development and Lands for securing the land and the funding, and praised the Department of Water’s role in designing the flood mitigation works.

“I want to acknowledge the close working relationship between the departments of Regional Development and Lands; and Water, the Shire of Carnarvon, Main Roads WA, the Gascoyne Development Commission and community stakeholders,” Mr Marmion said.

“Stage 2 works will reduce the impact of major river flooding in the greater Carnarvon horticultural district and minimise disruption to regional transport in times of major flooding. The works will also protect key water infrastructure in the region, including parts of the $14million upgraded Gascoyne irrigation pipeline.

“I’m extremely pleased with the collaborative approach to planning and securing the funding for the building and ongoing maintenance of the levee works.”

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Press Release, November 27, 2012